Contact officers/anti-harassment officers

UNISON advises that policies should ideally include the designation of independent people to provide help and support for those being bullied and harassed. These officers should be specially trained to deal with harassment and bullying complaints. Employees often find it difficult to raise concerns for a number of reasons: it could be that it is their manager or supervisor who is doing the bullying or harassing; because they are frightened, distrustful or even embarrassed; or because the feelings they experience makes it hard for them to speak out.

For these reasons, UNISON proposes that policies include contact officers or anti-harassment officers. Those working as contact or harassment officers must be fully trained in how to carry out their role. The training should also be available to union reps.